The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that the crescent moon of Jumada al-Awwal 1447 AH is expected to be sighted on the evening of Thursday, October 23, across several parts of the country.
According to the PMD, the new moon will be born at 5:25 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PST) on October 21. On October 23, the sun will set at 5:58 PM, while the moon will set at 6:54 PM, creating a visibility window of about 56 minutes after sunset.
The PMD explained that for a crescent to be sighted, it must be at least 19 hours old and positioned above five degrees on the horizon at sunset. Both requirements are likely to be met on October 23, suggesting a high probability of successful sighting.
If the crescent is sighted as predicted, the first day of Jumada al-Awwal will fall on Friday, October 24. The department noted that southern and western regions, including Karachi, Gwadar, and Quetta, are expected to have clearer skies and better viewing conditions. However, cloud cover in the northern parts of the country may make visibility more challenging.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on October 23 after Maghrib prayers to confirm the sighting. Zonal committees across the country will share their observations before the official announcement is made.
